Funeral email could be fake, malicious

MADISON—An email about a funeral could be a fake. It also could be an attempt to infect your computer, according to the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

The fake emails state only that an upcoming service will be held for a “friend” and provide a link for more details. Never click on such a link. Delete the email immediately, says a department consumer alert.

If you click on the link, your browser will go to a foreign website where a file whose name ends in “.zip” will automatically be downloaded. If this file is opened, malware will be installed on the computer.

One fake email received by a Wisconsin resident claimed to be from Eubank Funeral Home & Cremation Services, a legitimate company in Texas. The company has placed a warning on its website. Fake emails might use the names of other businesses as well.

For more information or to file a consumer complaint, visit datcp.wi.gov, send an email to datcphotline@wisconsin.gov or call the Consumer Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-422-7128.